Police told to protect, regulate foreigners

[geovalin]

Taing Vida

In an effort to boost tourism and protect investors, National Police chief Neth Saroeun urged military and local police officers at a conference yesterday to work together to strengthen security in Preah Sihanouk and Siem Reap provinces and Phnom Penh.

Saroeun noted that the EU and Japan had been openly critical of the effectiveness of police in dealing with petty crime, but also admonished officers to tackle crimes in which foreigners were the perpetrators.

“If there has been lateness from the authorities in intervening for the victims of robbery or theft, I am sorry,” he said, while adding that he had “also raised the issue of foreigners coming here and committing anarchy”.

Saroeun referred to a recent shootout allegedly involving Russian nationals in Sihanoukville, which he condemned on Monday, and the multiple instances of nude tourists in Kandal and the Angkor temple complex being deported.

“We have to put more effort into protecting public places,” he said.

According to data from City Hall, Phnom Penh police made 762 arrests in 2014.

http://www.phnompenhpost.com/police-told-protect-regulate-foreigners